Pakistan issues heightened cyber threat warning amid surge in hacker attacks
Cyber attack in process with hacker using laptop. Computer and digital security icons in cells. Hacking and malware concept.
Pakistan’s National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) has issued an urgent cybersecurity advisory amid a surge in malicious online activity targeting both private and public sectors. The alert cites phishing campaigns, fraudulent websites, malware distribution, and opportunistic hacking attempts as major threats during periods of high internet traffic and upcoming events.
CERT warns that these attacks, which often need only minimal user interaction, can cause severe damage, including stolen personal and corporate data, financial fraud, service disruptions, and reputational harm. In many cases, outdated systems and weak network segmentation make it easier for attackers to infiltrate multiple services.
The advisory highlights phishing emails, unsafe public Wi-Fi, fake offers, and themed downloads such as wallpapers and apps as common lures used by cybercriminals.
Recommended precautions for individuals include enabling multi-factor authentication, regularly updating software, avoiding public Wi-Fi without VPNs, and using strong passwords. For organizations, CERT advises patching CMS platforms, deploying firewalls, restricting remote access, and keeping offline backups.
CERT stressed that prompt action, vigilance, and coordinated response efforts are vital to safeguarding Pakistan’s national digital infrastructure against evolving cyber threats.